World War I - Gold Star Records

A memorial collection honoring Tennesseans who made the supreme sacrifice during World War I.

The gold star quickly became a national symbol of mourning and patriotic pride as fierce fighting and the Influenza Epidemic of 1918 claimed more American lives than any conflict in living memory since the Civil War. After peace was won, Americans incorporated the gold star in their commemorative efforts at home and abroad. They erected monuments, established cemeteries, and launched state-based historical projects, including the Tennessee World War I Gold Star Records.

These records represent a diverse group of Tennesseans—drafted, enlisted, and commissioned—who died in service of their country. Soldiers’ files offer insights into the lives of turn-of-the-century Tennesseans, unique genealogical source material, and deeply moving accounts of loss on European battlefields. Now, explore their stories and join the Library & Archives in commemorating the centennial anniversary of their sacrifice.

 Marshall County | AHGP Tennessee

Source: History of Tennessee, Goodspeed Publishing Company, 1886